Every spring children rush out of school that last day happily anticipating glorious freedom from rigorous schedules, tiring studies, and piles of homework. They vigorously delve into the activities that they have been looking forward to for months.

Week One rolls by without a hitch as they completely savor the freedom of summer vacation and keep themselves occupied with the joys of their newfound freedom. Week Two rolls by without many hiccups, but some of the fun of the “no schedule” idea is beginning to fade. Occasional, but brief, bouts of boredom blues set in. By Week Three things are beginning to change a bit. Last week’s fun is no longer fun anymore and fresh ideas for new fun are not fast in coming. The timing is ripe for real boredom blues to set in. Mom and Dad try to help by keeping them busy for a time with daily chores and by repeatedly suggesting various activities that they think their youngsters might enjoy. By the end of Week Three, Mom is ready to admit she needs some help.

Does this sound all too familiar? Listed below are five suggestions for keeping things profitable and interesting this summer.

1. START AN EXERCISE PROGRAM: Start a little exercise program including a weekly schedule. For example, set a goal for how many cumulative miles your family could walk in one month. Do some calculations and pace yourself daily to reach or exceed your goal. Be sure to keep enthusiasm alive by varying your walking time and place. Go to a park occasionally for your walk or make your local church the starting place one day. You will be surprised at how much fun this can be.
2. TAKE UP NATURE STUDIES: Buy a nature guide such as a Field Guide to the Birds, Trees, Flowers, etc. Take nature hikes often and watch for certain animals or plants. See how many different birds you can spot on one hike, and perhaps switch to trees for the next hike. Help your children appreciate the amazing variety and beauty of God’s nature at a very young age.
3. PURCHASE A PLAY SET: A new playset in your backyard is sure to create some new excitement for the summer months. Be sure to choose a high quality outdoor swing set with plenty of options. It is very good to include climbing activities as well as swinging ones as you make your play set choice. Of course, a slide for the ride down is a must as well. Remember that this investment will return dividends for many a summer vacation if the size and the quality level is correctly chosen.
4. ADOPT A PET: This suggestion will build responsibility and compassion in children if handled correctly. Be sure that the pet matches your living quarters and that your children can adequately handle most of the care for the new pet. Otherwise, many frustrations are bound to result. Teach your children the importance of good nutrition as they feed their animal. Let them read books about the type of pet they are caring for and encourage them to take the best possible care of their pet. Step back and enjoy that first time the new puppy fetches correctly or sits up to beg. Stroke the soft fur of your youngster’s little bunny as your little one cuddles it to himself. Pet care can be a very fulfilling and rewarding asset to your summer vacation this year.
5. PLANT A GARDEN: There is no need for a large garden plot for this suggestion to work. Even an apartment dwelling can host a little vegetable garden. Plant some beans, peppers, or tomatoes in some flower pots with the help of your children. Morning by morning they will check the pots for any sign of plants sprouting. Revel in the joy of watching them care for their plants. Find a book about gardening and learn with the children about the plants you are raising. As harvest time approaches you will need to restrain the youngest children from picking immature fruit. Harvest the fruits of your labor and enjoy! There is no doubt, whether or not your actual harvest is bountiful, you will reap a rich harvest of fulfillment from this little summer project with your children.

In summary, do not waste the lazy summer months and merely pacify your children with “at the moment” quick fixes for their boredom. Plan ahead and give them worthwhile things to do. After all, school is out and all of the glorious summer is ahead. Enjoy it to the fullest.